For many Israelis, service in the Israel Defense Forces is the ultimate test of manhood.  Like his peers, Yonatan, a teenager from Jerusalem, was eager to join the army.  But tragedy struck, and instead of defending his country, Yonatan is today battling cancer. 

At age 20, he is a severely ill young man waiting desperately for a bone marrow transplant.  The only time he leaves home is to go to the hospital.  The staff of Oranit, Ezer Mizion's Guest Home for Children with Cancer, has attempted to involve Yonatan in some of the activities it sponsors for sick youngsters, but he has refused to take part, which expressed how depressed he was at being so sick.  

Yonatan's mother called Yumi Dzialowsky, a senior member of the Oranit staff.  "The only thing that might possibly get Yonatan to leave his bed is to take him to a shooting range," she suggested.  "He was so much looking forward to joining the army.  This might simulate the army experience. But the suggestion has to come from you, not from me." 

Yumi initiated contact with Yonatan, who for the first time showed interest in what he had to say.  "I'm taking you to a shooting range tomorrow," Yumi stated.  "Be ready at 9 o clock."   Due to his weakened condition, Yonatan needed to be transported in an ambulance.  Yumi picked him the next morning, and the two proceeded to a shooting range in Netanya.  The young man spent close to two blissful hours shooting with live ammunition.  "He did better than I did," said Yumi.  "He hit all the targets and was ecstatic."  Afterwards the two enjoyed a delicious dinner in an elegant restaurant in the city. 

Yonatan's mom called Yumi the next day. "He was a different person when he returned," she exulted.  "You can not imagine what this did for him.  For the first time in a very long while, he showed some hope and interest in the future."

Oranit Guest Home for Children with Cancer